Throughout life, the pursuit of happiness is a constant theme. What it means to be happy can vary from person to person and change at different ages. For some, happiness may be linked to professional achievements; For others, it is in the simple moments of everyday life.
A study in the United Kingdom sought to realize in what phase of life humans feel truly happier. The analysis was based on more than 23,000 people and revealed conclusions that contradict some ideas made about well-being over the years.
Two peaks of happiness identified
According to researchers, happiness follows a U -shaped curve. This means that there is a tendency for happiness levels to be higher in early adulthood, gradually descend with age and rise again.
The first peak of happiness happens on average around 23 years. It is at this stage that many people start new life projects, such as higher studies, first jobs or significant relationships.
The second peak is observed around 69 years. Arrival to reform, emotional or family stability, and freedom to devote time to personal interests may be among the factors that help explain this increase in emotional well-being.
When we feel less happy
Among these two moments of greater happiness, the study indicates that life satisfaction levels tend to be lower between 45 and 48 years. This phase coincides with what is popularly designated as the middle-aged crisis.
During this period, career -related concerns may arise, financial situation, health or stagnation. These issues can contribute to a less positive perception of life itself, although in practice many of these challenges are common and even expected.
It is important to note that these data are statistical and should not be interpreted as a rule. Each person has their own life experience, marked by unique events.
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Happiness and simple moments
Despite oscillations over time, the study stresses that happiness does not only depend on great events. Many of the participants identified moments of welfare associated with simple gestures, such as sharing a meal with friends, listening to music or walking outdoors.
These everyday moments seem to play an important role in building life satisfaction, regardless of the age or phase in which the person is.
The perception of well-being can also be influenced by factors such as family support, social involvement and the quality of interpersonal relationships.
Common trends and individual experiences
Although study points to a common curve in lifelong happiness levels, it is possible that some people do not identify with this trajectory. There are many elements that escape statistical data, such as the cultural context, the state of health or outstanding events at the personal level.
Happiness is subjective
Moreover, the concept of happiness is subjective and changes over different ages. What provides well-being to a person may not have the same impact on another. For this reason, the ages marked in the study should be understood as average trends, not as guarantees.
This type of investigation allows, according to, to better understand the moments of the life cycle in which, in general, people are more satisfied with their existence.
The analysis, based on data from thousands of individuals, offers a comprehensive view of the theme and contributes to a greater understanding of the stages of greater and less emotional satisfaction.
Even at ages identified as ‘most difficult’, most people reported finding small points of balance and moments of relief.
UP curve
The study suggests that happiness can be a cyclic phenomenon and that there are phases where well-being tends to increase naturally. The U curve can help you understand that the ups and downs are part of a longer route.
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